Athlete Foot

Athlete foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.

Athlete's Foot

Athlete foot is a skin disease caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes.

The fungus most commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment which encourages fungus growth.

The warmth and dampness of areas around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms are also breeding grounds for fungi. Because the infection was common among athletes who used these facilities frequently, the term "athlete's foot" became popular.

Not all fungus conditions are athlete's foot. Other conditions, such as disturbances of the sweat mechanism, reaction to dyes or adhesives in shoes, eczema, and psoriasis, may mimic athlete's foot.

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Symptoms

The symptoms are, singly or combined, are dry skin, itching, scaling, inflammation, and blisters. Blisters often lead to cracking of the skin. When blisters break, small raw areas of tissue are exposed, causing pain and swelling. Itching and burning may increase as the infection spreads.

Athlete's foot may spread to the soles of the feet and to the toenails. It can be spread to other parts of the body, notably the groin and underarms, by those who scratch the infection and then touch themselves elsewhere. The organisms causing athlete's foot may persist for long periods. Consequently, the infection may be spread by contaminated bed sheets or clothing to other parts of the body.

As a general rule, Athlete Foot procedures are performed on an out-patient basis in an Alberta Health Services (AHS) approved Surgical Center or in a Hospital. Surgical procedural costs are covered by AHS or the patient may opt for private surgery to avoid a waiting time. A visit to Feldman & Leavitt Foot And Ankle Specialists will CLEARLY define all available patient options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is athlete's foot a fungal infection?

What are the causes of and symptoms of athlete's foot?

Symptoms
The majority of people experience itching as well as cracking, peeling, or scaly skin. Athlete's foot is most commonly found in the space between the toes. It has the potential to be more widespread and even cause blistering.

Causes
Fungi that thrive in moist and warm environments, such as showers and socks left in shoes, cause athlete's foot. The skin is the body's natural barrier, and any break in the skin can allow infection to take hold. Because socks and shoes cover the feet, they are the most commonly affected. This traps sweat against the skin and creates an environment conducive to the growth of fungi.

Does athlete's foot have a cure?

Athlete's foot is treated non-surgically. Skin moisture can be reduced by changing socks throughout the day. Shoes should be rotated; do not wear the same shoes on consecutive days. Allow enough time for the feet to be exposed without being covered. Dry the space between the toes thoroughly after a shower. After a hot shower, your feet may continue to sweat, so wait until they have cooled before putting on socks. These interventions are just as important as medication treatment.

Antifungal medications are widely available and marketed for athlete's foot. Clotrimazole, miconazole, or tolnaftate are common ingredients. Sprays, powders, and creams can all be used successfully. Use the medication for several weeks after the symptoms have subsided to reduce the likelihood of the infection returning.

Do I require medical attention to treat athlete's foot?

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For more information on Athlete Foot, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons

For more information on Athlete Foot, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons

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